Mercedes->ke187 is undergoing a whole host of changes within its lineup, as it updates its styling, platforms, engines, and names. Having already updated most of its car and crossover lineup, the Germans are now rolling out the SLC->ke2744 and its beefed-up AMG->ke8 brother. Don't let the name fool you, this isn't a brand-new car, but a facelift to the existing SLK->ke1683 roadster.

The renaming of the brand's smallest two-door is part of Mercedes' recent strategy to highlight the close relationship of its models to the platforms they're derived from. Since the SLK was closely related to the C-Class,->ke1593 Stuttgart replaced the K with the C, giving birth to the SLC. The name itself isn't exactly new. Mercedes offered an SLC from 1971 to 1981 alongside the R107-generation SL.->ke950 Distinguished by the longer wheelbase and louvered C-pillars, the SLC replaced the W111-generation coupe and was replaced by the W126 S-Class Coupe (C126).

Back to our model in question, the AMG version was also renamed, receiving a new two-digit combination. Previously known as the SLK55, the performance roadster->ke1418 will be marketed as the SLC43 from now on. The new nomenclature also comes with a new engine, as AMG dropped the familiar naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V-8. Surprisingly enough, the new unit isn't the 4.0-liter V-8, but you'll have to keep reading to find out more about that.

Continue reading to find out more about the Mercedes-AMG SLC43.

Exterior

Like nearly every other recently redesigned Mercedes-Benz model, the AMG-tuned SLC arrives with minor, albeit noticeable changes. Up front, the most visible of the changes were applied to the headlamps, grille, and bumper. Although the headlamps are similar to the previous unit as far as shape and size go, the light cluster is new, with the arrangement similar to the C-Class. The previous grille was replaced by a diamond pattern piece, a feature that has become standard for most Mercedes models in 2015. However, the SLC43 didn't receive the fancier twin-blade grille insert of the S-Class Cabriolet. Down below, the roadster sports a brand-new bumper employing the brand's new "A-wing" form. The horizontal slats on the sides are significantly larger, as is the silver chrome splitter. Overall, the SLC43 is a lot more aggressive than its predecessor and that menacing bumper is the main culprit.

Significant modifications were operated around back as well. While the trunk lid remained unchanged, the taillights gained new LED clusters with the reverse lights mounted at the bottom (the SLK55 model had them at the top). The bumper is also new, featuring vertical side intakes, a new diffuser, and smaller, but better integrated exhaust pipes. Also, the bumper's main character line is no longer slightly V-shaped, but straight from one corner to the other. The side view is highlighted by high-sheen, 18-inch AMG wheels, high-gloss black mirror caps, and silver chrome fins for the front fenders.

Customers who want a bespoke roadster will have a access to several options, including red-painted brake calipers, headlamp eyebrows, several 18-inch wheel and tire combinations, and Designo paint finishes.

Interior

The interior received less attention with the facelift, as most design features are identical to the SLK55. Notable changes include a new steering wheel, a revised instrument cluster, new seats, and silver chrome trim finishes for the A/C vents and door handles. Wrapped in Nappa leather, the multi-function steering wheel comes with a flattened bottom and perforated grip areas for the hands. The seats are said to offer greater lateral support when a dynamic driving style is adopted.

As usual, numerous upholstery layouts are available, with the range-topping models getting a combination of Nappa leather and Dinamica microfiber with contrast stitching and piping for the seats, door panels, steering wheel, and upper dashboard. The Airscarf neck-level heating system introduced on the S-Class Cabriolet is available as an option. The Comand infotainment system is also an option, as is the Logic 7 Surround Sound system by Harman Kardon and ambience lighting in Solar Red, Polar Blue, and Polar White.

Overall, the SLC43's interior doesn't offer too many new features, but it's not bad for a mid-cycle facelift.

Drivetrain

Under the hood is where the SLC43 got the most important update, in the form of a new engine. The big news here is that AMG not only dropped the naturally aspirated, 5.5-liter V-8, but replaced it with a V-6, making the SLC43 the second current AMG model to not use an eight- or 12-cylinder powerplant (the A45 uses a four-cylinder), and the first V-6-powered AMG in more than a decade. The last AMG to employ a V-6 was also an SLK, the SLK32 offered between 2001 and 2004.

The new unit is a twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V-6 that seems similar to the C450 AMG, which isn't a full-blown AMG model. However, AMG claims to have tuned the engine management software and increased boost. As far as numbers go, the powerplant cranks out 362 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. That's 54 horsepower and 14 pound-feet of twist less than the previous model, which also translates into slower acceleration times. While the SLK55 needed 4.5 seconds to hit 60 mph, the SLC43 will do the same in 4.6 ticks. Granted, it's not like a tenth of a second will make much of a difference, but you're probably asking why AMG detuned the roadster.

Well, it's all about efficiency. Although EPA numbers aren't yet available, Mercedes claims the SLC43 is not only more efficient than its predecessor, but also the most efficient six-cylinder roadster on the market. Given that the previous model returned up to 28 mpg on the highway and 19 mpg in the city, the SLC43 should be good for at least 31 mpg highway and 22 mpg city to make a difference.

The power routes to the wheels through a 9G-Tronic sport transmission with double-declutching function on downshifts.

Though less powerful, the roadster should handle better thanks to its bespoke front and rear axles with new elastokinematics, stiffer mountings for engine and rear-axle gear unit. Optionally, the SLC43 can be equipped with the AMG Ride Control sport suspension with adjustable damping, which was designed for high lateral acceleration and reduced roll. The options list also includes a rear-axle limited-slip differential, which improves traction and handling. Stopping power is provided by a high-performance braking system with larger brake discs.

Drivetrain Specifications

Prices

Despite the upgrades, I don’t expect to see a huge price hike when the SLC43 arrives in showrooms. In 2016, the SLK55 starts at $72,600, and I wouldn’t expect anything higher than about $75,000 for the new model.

Competition

2016 Porsche Boxster Spyder

When it comes to powerful and fast roadsters, the Boxster Spyder is one of the best options you have. Thanks to a 375-horsepower 3.8-liter flat-six engine, the new Boxster Spyder launches to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds and up to a top speed of 180 mph. What’s more, its midship engine makes for perfect balance in the corners, giving the quick roadster some of the most precise handling available in this price range. The downside to the Boxster Spyder is that it is very expensive at $82,100.

Find out more about the Porsche Boxster Spyder here.

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible

The value leader in this insanely fast and luxurious segment is the Corvette Stingray Convertible. With a base price of $59,995 and the most thoughtful cabin ever to grace the crossed flags, the Corvette Stingray Convertible really gives buyers something to think about when shopping in this segment. To really get into the level of class and performance offered by the SLC55, you’ll need to bump up to the 3LT trim level with the Z51 Performance Package. This puts the Stingray->ke4603 right in line with the SLC43 at $74,445. Thanks to its 6.2-liter V-8 engine that puts out up to 460 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of twist, the Corvette Stingray Convertible can hit 60 mph in as few as 3.8 seconds.

Read our full review here.

Conclusion

Although some may feel disappointed by the fact that the SLC43 didn't receive AMG's new 4.0-liter V-8, the revised roadster remains one of the most thrilling performance vehicles on the market even with a V-6 under its hood. AMG's decision is understandable here, as the SLC's current platform isn't suited for the new engine. The 4.0-liter V-8 will most likely find its way into the SLC with the next generation, but until then you'll have to settle with the 3.0-liter V-6. Hopefully, the revised underpinnings will make the roadster sportier than ever before and customers will quickly forget that the engine packs only six cylinders.

Rendering